Enjoy a unique experience! AGIOS THEODOROS # agiostheodoros

FIRST EDITION 6/2020 INTRODUCTION

Our Community…

Situated along the riverbanks of ‘Pendaschinos’, the picturesque village of Agios Theodoros in Lar- naca is a place to explore. Named after Saint Theodoros, our village hosts a magnificent church dedi- cated to his holiness. The village is not mentioned in older maps of . In fact, it is possible that is built on the ruins of the ancient settlements Αnas- tadia, Xeugalalio, Capno, Vasi- lopotamo, Pendasino which are found in medieval Cyprus maps.

The route to the seaside, called ‘Pendaschinos valley’, follows the river which is named, ac- cording to the tradition, after a very long snake. A snake that was five (pende) ‘ropes’ (schin- ia) long. Taking this unique route, the visitor will enjoy a fantastic scenery, all the way through hun- dreds of orange and lemon trees, especially during spring when everything is blossomed and the air is full of beautiful aromas. Caves and canyons complete the landscape making it much more interesting and mysterious. Reaching the end of this amazing drive you will find yourself in a peaceful seashore where the absolute blue will take your breath away.

Agios Theodoros used to be a two-community village until the Turkish invasion of 1974 when all moved to the oc- cupied area of Cyprus. Being one of the biggest villages in Cyprus with a coast line of 8,5 km, it has a population of around seven hundred people and ex- tends to the seaside, as many res- idents have chosen to build their houses in Pendaschinos area. A large number of cottages is also built in the village.

1 CONTENTS

Religious Monuments...... 3-7

Worth visiting...... 8-14

Organised Beaches...... 15-16

Tasting Experiences...... 17-20

Accommodation...... 21-23

Enjoy your coffee...... 24

Traditional Products...... 25-26

Our Youth...... 27-28

2 Religious Monuments

Visiting Religious Monuments

Saint Theodoros Church

At the center of our community, on the top of a small hill, is the church dedicat- ed to Saint Theodoros. The church is built between the years 1956 - 1970. It is a three-aisled basilica with a cruciform dome, and has been frescoed in the re- cent years. At this same place, according to resident testimonies, there used to be a smaller temple, a building of 1847. It was sin- gle-aisle, arched, without tiles and built with local stones. On the south side of the temple, there was a built-in porch with four arches. The bell tower that was at the top had about two meters height. Only the icon of the patron saint of the community is preserved from this tem- ple, and is in the present building in a stone-built case. His memory is celebrated every year on the 17th of February.

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Saint Athanasios Pendaschinitis

Years ago, the settlement of Agios Theodoros used to be in Pendaschinos area near the sea. Given the appellative Pendaschinitis, Saint Athanasios was born and lived there. The chapel goes back in the 7th century and was built above Saint’s tomb. Its ruins reveal a magnificent temple which unfortunately was suffered catastrophic damage from the earthquakes that struck Cyprus.

The tomb of Saints and another grave, allegedly owned by his father, were dis- covered in 2004 after excavations.

Saint Athanasios performed many mira- cles even after his death. Thanks to that, the temple had become a Pan-Orthodox pilgrimage and his reputation is such that his iconography, from the 12th cen- tury onwards, is found in many churches on the island.

His memory is celebrated every year on the 10th of July.

4 Religious Monuments

Agioi Anargiroi Chapel This stone-built chapel, a donation of Damianos Hajigeorgiou in 1919, is situated in a distance of 3 km from the center of the village. Is a small chapel made of local stone with a wooden roof and a woodcut ‘iconos- tasis’. It is open for pilgrimage daily. Their memory is celebrated every year on November 1st.

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Panagia Astathkiotissa Chapel

This single-threaded chapel dedicated to Virgin Mary is located on a hill in the east of the village just 1,5 km from the center.

There are two different explanations for the origin of the name “Astathkiotissa”. According to the first one the name is after the toponym of the area in which the chapel is built called “astathkia” whereas the second one says that the name is due to the fertile land around it. This stone-built chapel with the irregular shape has got two entrances. The altar is also made of stone while the iconostasis is wooden as it should have been made lat- er. The wall paintings inside, according to the British researcher and author Rubert Gunnis, go back to the 16th century. The chapel has been declared a monument and is under the auspices of the Department of Antiquities.

The memory of Astathkiotissa is commem- orated on Thursday after Easter every year and the Divine Liturgy is held in the chapel. It is open for pilgrimage daily.

6 Religious Monuments

The Three Holly Children and Prophet Daniel A recent chapel built in 2004.

The memory of the Three Holly Children and Prophet Daniel is commemorated on December 17th every year.

It is open daily and is located on the main street just before the beach.

Turkish Cypriot Mosque The Turkish Cypriot mosque is located near the central bridge of the community. It is a two-floor stone-built building with arches. The ground floor has been in use for various purposes in the past, while the religious site is on the upper floor.

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Worth visiting

Traditional Olive Mill

There were several mills in the community of Agios Theodoros and one of them be- longs to the Turkish Cypriot Ismail Kassianou. This mill was renovated in 2018 by the Community Council and is open daily for visits. In the Traditional Olive Mill, you can see how oil was produced at the beginning of the 20th century with the millstones, the press, the machines and the gemstones of the time.

8 Worth visiting

Andreas Euripides (missing since 1974) Gallery In the gallery you will have the chance to enjoy artworks of the missing hero of our Community, which were painted before the Turkish invasion of 1974.

Andreas Euripides was an amateur painter whose work, being a valuable inheritance, is donated to our community.

69 #visitagiostheodoros “Stephani” View Point

For a spectacular view and unique photos visit the “Stephani” area, a mountain / hill east of the community.

A ‘window’ has been placed at the spot so that you can take the best pictures ever. The inscription is, # agiostheodoros

The Orchard of the Village Shortly after the roundabout of the com- munity, you will see the Community Picnic Area called “The Orchard of the Village”. The aromas of citrus fruits fascinate and invite you to sit under their large shade. The visitor can taste the fruit of the gar- den, a gesture of community hospitality.

10 Worth visiting

“Vritzi” Nature Trail

The natural environment of the village is unique, with stunningly beautiful land- scapes. A large area is part of the “Natura 2000”, the nature conservation network. We in- vite you to admire the magic of our nat- ural surroundings by walking the nature trail, located in the Vritzi area, (on the road to the coastal area, 4 km from the village). The canyon, the caves and the intense geological relief, give a mysteri- ous character and leave the visitor with unique images. The path is linear, at a distance of 850 meters, accessible to families.

The Nature Trail “Vrytzi” and the Com- munity Picnic Area “ The Orchard of the Village” have been awarded a Green Flag at the “Green City and Green Community of Cyprus” Nationwide Awards 2019, on the category “Sustainable Tourism”. It is worth noting that our Community be- came the first Community in the Province of Larnaca to be awarded a Green Flag.

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Venetian Water Mill or Hadjiatos Mill

The Venetian Water Mill consists a re- markable and important work of folk ar- chitecture of the past years, built by the residents of Agios Theodoros.

The entire watermill, located on the south side of the village by the banks of the river, is built of stones quarried from the vertical slopes of the valley created by Pentaschinos.

Looking at the remaining construction of the mill, you easily realize that this is an original and remarkable piece of work. In its present form, there is a stone mason- ry, six to seven meters long, resting on three equal arches, the height of which reaches the two meters.

“Ssinapin” Bridge Stone bridge across the riverbed of Pentaschinos in Agridia area. In the old days it was used for irrigation purposes, as evidenced by the groove saved under the later coating. The bridge is part of the Hadjiatos mill which was one of the largest hydro- geological works of the time.

12 Worth visiting

Larnaca Rural Women’s Association The Larnaca Rural Women’s Association was founded in October 2004 by a small group of 22 women. At the mo- ment numbers more than 500 women members from 22 Larnaca Mountain and Semi-Mountain Communities.

The headquarters of the Association is located in Agios Theodoros Larnaca. It is housed in the old Turkish Cypriot school where there is an education hall, an event hall, an exhibition hall and a demonstration area of Local Traditional Products and Arts.

Community Playground It is in the center of the village, next to the riverbed of Pentaschinos. It has recently been renovated with many modern toys and a special protective floor.

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Seaside Playground It is in the coastal area, next to the main road Kiti - Zygi.

It is a project of landscaping an open beach area and in- cludes landscaping, outdoor rest and recreation area with benches, swings, seesaw, and slide.

Community Football Stadium It is a modern football stadium with grass, which has locker rooms for hosts, guest teams and referees, gym, canteen and stands. It can host football matches up to Third Division. From time to time it has been used for training by the U15 National Foot- ball Team and by Second Division teams. It is the headquarters of our village Football Team called “Thyella”.

14 Community Organised Beaches

Community Organised Beaches

Maia Beach Provides all the comforts: sunbeds and umbrellas, toilets, showers and other ame- nities. It offers snacks, sandwiches and various cool drinks. The beach has shallow waters created by the small rocky bay and thus is ideal for families. You can also do canoeing / kayaking and yoga classes. 99890615

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Akakia Beach Provides all the comforts: sunbeds and umbrellas, toilets, showers and other amenities. It is located next to the Beach Kids Park and offers delicious dishes and sweets, cool drinks, cocktails and narghile. The combination of wood and mat with the blue of the sea blend harmoniously, making the spot look exotic. 96553192 16 Tasting Experiences

Taverns - Restaurants «Anna Maria» Restaurant At “Anna Maria” Restaurant you can taste delicious dishes of the day, meat and fish appetizers. In the courtyard of the restau- rant there is also the Anna Maria Cafe Bar where you can enjoy coffee, ice cream and delicious sweet crepes. 30th Antonaki Manoli, Agios Theodoros Larnacas 24322541

«Kali Eftichia» Tavern It is located in the heart of the village with intense traditional Cypriot architectural element, excellent decoration and an inner courtyard full of flowers. It offers a high standard of traditional Cypriot food.

It has got the “Taste Cyprus Delightful Journeys” certification and is considered to be a culinary destination.

2 Κ. Hajikoumi, Agios Theodoros Larnacas 24322690

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«O Paliomouktaros» Tavern It is located near the picnic area “The or- chard of the village” in a beautiful and warm environment, where you can taste and try fine delicacies with live music. It has a large outdoor garden with grass suitable for various events (christenings, engagements, etc.).

It has got the “Taste Cyprus Delightful Journeys” certification and is considered to be a culinary destination.

12 Filiou Tsiagaridi, Agios Theodoros Larnacas 24323323

«To Vasano» Tavern Delicious food and fine seasonal delicacies are served. Exceptional and unique flavors are offered in a beautifully landscaped traditional environment next to the Community Kid’s Park in the heart of the village. It has got the “Taste Cyprus Delightful Journeys” certification and is considered to be a culinary destination. 5 Κ. Hajikoumi, Agios Theodoros Larnacas 24323022

18 Tasting Experiences

Fish Taverns - Restaurant «Limni» Fish Tavern 24440101 Delicious fish and seafood dishes are served. It has an organized beach with sunbeds, where you can enjoy your drink or coffee while diving and then taste the unique and special flavors of its servings. It is located on the coastal front of the Com- munity.

«Landa» Restaurant You can taste delicious fish appetizers with many kinds of fish and seafood and other fine dishes, enjoying the unique view of the endless blue of the sea. It is located on the coastal front of the Community. 24440002 / 99115065

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“Mamas” Fish Tavern It is located on the main coastal road, literally on the sea, offering fresh fish straight from the boat and delicious seafood. You can visit “Mamas” and enjoy your food by the sea all year round. 99668896

«Pentaschinos» Fish Tavern – Ouzeri It serves high quality fresh fish appetizers (fish and seafood). It is located on the main coastal road and during the summer season offers to its customers umbrellas and sunbeds for swim- ming and sunbathing. Enjoy your ouzo accom- panied by fine seafood delicacies.

96236310 / 24440044

20 Accommodation in Agios Theodoros

Accommodation in Agios Theodoros

Elya Beach Luxury Suites Luxury beach resort Offering direct access to the sea, Elya Beach Luxury Suites are located at the coastal side of the village. They boast an outdoor swimming pool, suitable for adults and children, BBQ facilities in the garden area and seafront, self-catered accommodation. Spacious and tastefully decorated, the air-condi- tioned apartments and suites of Elya Beach Luxury Suites feature a fully functional kitchen. Each has a seating and dining area, a flat-screen satellite TV and washing machine. They all open out onto a terrace and balcony. Guests can relax in the sun loungers under the shade of olive trees. Water sports and scuba diving are available on site. The staff of Elya Beach Luxury Suites can arrange car and bicycle rental if requested.

99584210 / 24817304 21 #visitagiostheodoros

Cyprus Glamping Park An alternative way to stay in wooden houses with all the amenities 99544514 Cyprus Glamping Park was established in 2017 - its founders wanted to create a stress-free zone within natural surroundings. Among olive trees an inclusive space of tranquility, peace and love was born. Cyprus Glamping Park offers garden, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accom- modation with a patio and free WiFi. All units comprise a seating area with a sofa, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchenette with var- ious cooking facilities, including a microwave, a fridge and a toaster. There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and free toilet- ries. Continental and full English/Irish break- fast options are available every morning at the camping. Cyprus Glamping Park offers a chil- dren’s playground and is located less than 1 km from Maia and Akakia Beaches. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental ser- vice are available at the accommodation, while hiking and cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

Happy Glamping CY is located in the Happy Glamping Cy village in an idyllic location on the western slope of the Pentashinos val- An alternative way to stay in wooden ley, overlooking both the village the houses with all the amenities valley to the beach. The rustic chalets offer wonderful views and all the house 99082534 comforts you would expect from a Glamping Experience. The small farm provides opportunities for the guests to experience nature at its very best, the guests can pick organically grown fruit and vegetables, and fresh eggs from hens, Happy Glamping offer a wide range of activities from free bi- cycles to sightseeing tours and nature trails. Happy Glamping features free WiFi and units equipped with a kitch- en. Each unit comes with a fridge, a microwave, a kettle, as well as a stove- top. A patio with mountain views is offered in every unit.

22 Accommodation in Agios Theodoros

“To Konatzi tou Flokka” Agrotourism Apartments The “Konatzi tou Flokka” is a renovated 19th-cen- tury farmhouse located in the village. It offers tra- ditional accommodation with kitchen and it is a 5-minute drive away from the beach. The stone-built units of Flokka retain many of the original features of the building, such as stone arches and wooden ceilings. They come with a sat- ellite TV, fridge, microwave and air conditioning. All rooms have a balcony or open out to the lovely stone-paved courtyard. It features a shaded seat- ing area, where guests can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

24323201

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Enjoy your coffee...

Anna Maria Café Bar Tel.: 99402541

“Mamas” Traditional Coffee Shop Tel.: 99752191

Stama Kiosk Coffee Shop Tel.: 24323112

“Pentaschinos” Folklore Club House Tel: 99567582, 99177687

“Paliomouktaros” Coffee Shop & Snacks Pentaschinos Area Tel.: 99833201

24 Traditional Products

Buy traditional products…

Traditional Homemade Pasta “Marina” Tel.: 99909042 Handmade production of tradition- al pasta (pasta of the chisel, “tertz- ielloudkia” etc.). You can find them in various tradition festivals, upon request, at the workshop located in the village and in other selected stores.

Handmade Traditional Pasta “To Sklinitzi” Tel.: 97868342, 96589883 Handmade production of traditional prod- ucts such as pasta, wholemeal pasta, “ter- zielloudkia” and pasta with spinach and carrot. You can find them, upon request, in fruit shops and butchers in the area but also in selected organic stores in Nicosia, Larnaca and .

Myrianthi’s Breads & Bread Rolls Handmade production of traditional bread and bread rolls with sourdough, baked in a traditional wood oven.. Tel.: 99647569

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Buy all you need…

Theodoros Menelaou Grocery Tel.: 24323028, 99564100 Andreou Brothers Butchery Tel.: 24322090 Xanthoula Fruit Market Tel.: 99142536 Fresh Vegetables Cyprus Tel.: 99313590

Central Bridge

26 Our Youth

“Pentaschinos” Folklore Club

The “Pentaschinos” Folklore Club was founded on January 8, 2003. One of its main aims is to organize cultural - artistic events as well as to revive, cultivate and preserve our genuine folk traditions, morals and customs. It also holds children’s dance groups, a dance band, a theater group and a band. Among the events organized by the club are: the big Christmas celebration called “Christmas in the Village” and the festivities for the anniversaries of March 25th, 1821 and April 1st, 1955, which include parades, doxology, marches and theatrical performances. Moreover, the club was the originator of the idea of our three-day Community Arts & Culture Festival. It also organizes educational and entertaining excursions, Easter traditional games, hidden treasure games for children as well as other ed- ucational lectures that mainly concern young people and exchanges with other Cultural Clubs of Cyprus and abroad.

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“Thyella” Sports Club “Thyella” football team, the community’s Athletic Club since 1929, participates in the annual championship of SEK federation. It has been awarded with the championship of SEK for the first time in 2006 and in 2007 it crowned both Championship and Cup Winner. After many years and many efforts, Thyella managed to win the Championship in 2017. For three consecutive years, 2017, 2018 and 2019 Thyella was a finalist for the Cup. In addition to sporting events, the Athletic Club organizes artistic and folk evenings.

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ENGLISH EDITION Travel Guide

agios_theodoros_community [email protected]

www.facebook.com/K.S.Ag.Theodorou www.agiostheodoros.org

1st April 43, 7730 Agios Theodoros - Tel.: 24322010 - Fax: 24323111